No one can see the future. Accidents happen. And, in my line of business, I have seen it all! As an independent insurance agent, I have seen my clients experience all kinds of issues. Some of them are even preventable! Accidents and incidents that end up as insurance claims, especially in the winter, can sometimes be stopped before they even begin.

Here are some things you can do with your home and auto to decrease your risk. 

Auto Maintenance To Keep Your Vehicle Running Smoothly

While you can’t predict a car accident, and you certainly cannot account for other drivers, you can do your part to stay safe on the road with a few simple steps. Being sure that your own vehicle is road-ready and safe to drive, you can prevent avoidable issues.

Some things to consider this winter include:

• Schedule routine maintenance checks to review all systems
• Keep your windshield washer fluid filled
• Replace worn windshield wipers
• Check your battery periodically 
• Inspect your tires and measure tread regularly
• Stock your car with an emergency kit  

These simple steps may sound like the basic care any car requires. But as schedules get filled, money gets tight, and sometimes such things just slip your mind, you’d be surprised how many car owners don’t do these simple preventative measures.

However, taking the time now to double-check your automobile can prevent some accidents down the road.

Home Maintenance To Prevent Risk

Your home is likely one of the largest investments you’ll make in life. Keeping it in tip-top shape will not only help to maintain its value but will also prevent risks and accidents in the future. So many home insurance policy claims could have been prevented with some foresight and routine care.

To keep your home safe, consider taking these actions:

• Prevent pipes from freezing with insulation
• Have a sprinkler system blown out
• Clean your gutters of leaves and ice/snow build-up
• Check batteries and the working order of all smoke, radon, or carbon monoxide detectors
• Have your heating systems checked before winter months
• Clear heavy snow from rooftops
• Trim trees away from the home

In addition to these basic tasks that can keep your home in working order, you can also often seek the assistance of companies that do checks for you. Some electric or heating companies offer assessments to gauge any heat loss or sources of unnecessary energy expenditure. Not only can these checks save you on the heating bill, but can also keep your home safer with secured windows, doors, and ventilation by making sure all are in proper order.

Insurance That Has Your Back

At Rehm Insurance and Financial Services, we are far more than just salespeople. We aren’t here just to sell a policy and wish you the best. Instead, we aim to help you stay safe, prevent incidents and insure you’re covered when the unexpected does happen.

Beyond that, we truly care about your well-being. While we are always here and happy to have your back in the event of a claim, we first and foremost hope you don’t need to use these policies. 

Taking small measures today can save a lot of suffering tomorrow. Try some of these precautions to keep you and your family secure all winter long. If you’d like assistance in being sure you have all the policy coverage you need, simply schedule an appointment today with our team.